Level 3 Art and Design Course in Oxford

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Level 3 Art and Design Course in Oxford. Classes run full-time at Oxford City Centre College, five days a week during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover the cost. Over two years, you'll develop skills across a wide range of creative disciplines, from printmaking and ceramics to digital art, sculpture, textiles, and 3D printing. You'll need four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and maths, plus a portfolio or examples of your work.

Who this course is for

This two-year course is for you if you want to learn how to build, push, develop, and master your creative skills. On this course, you will be introduced to and will develop skills using a wide range of materials including traditional materials, techniques and processes. Also encouraged are the exploration of some more non-traditional techniques that you may not be so familiar with. Printmaking, Textiles, 3D printing, Digital Art, Sculpture, Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Metal work, Photography, . We embrace learning and making mistakes whilst we work together to identify your future goals in the first year. In the second year, we challenge and direct your learning to help you reach your individual goals. Students leaving the course will have gained the skills, industry requirements and a portfolio of work that will enable them to apply for universities, apprenticeships or creative roles in industry.. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

Entry requirements

You need to have 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and maths, with a keen interest and evidence in the subject (example of work or portfolio).. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in printmaking, including traditional techniques and processes.
  • You'll work with textiles and explore fabric-based creative methods.
  • You'll create three-dimensional work through sculpture and ceramics.
  • You'll use 3D printing technology to produce digital and physical designs.
  • You'll explore digital art tools and processes.
  • You'll experiment with non-traditional materials and techniques alongside established ones.
  • You'll build a body of creative work that demonstrates your range and development.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work, developing your skills hands-on across a range of materials and disciplines. Learning is classroom based and full-time, with daytime attendance across the two years. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work and projects that show your development and range. You'll be expected to bring examples of your work or a portfolio when you apply.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oxford City Centre College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to bring a portfolio or examples of your creative work when you apply.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for print and digital media.
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and editorial work.
  • Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors.
  • Ceramics artist or studio technician: make and sell work or support studio production.
  • Digital artist: create artwork for games, film, animation, or online platforms.
  • Art technician: support creative departments in schools or colleges.
  • Printmaker: produce limited-edition prints for galleries or commercial clients.

What you could study next

A Level 3 art and design qualification from University of the Arts London is recognised by many UK universities and art colleges as a foundation for degree-level study. You could progress to a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 4) to specialise before applying to a BA degree. Degree options include Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Textile Design, and Ceramics. Some learners also move into Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) in creative subjects as a more work-focused route.